What are the contrasts between state and federal prison?

Individuals accused of federal crimes

Individuals accused of federal crimes often want to know the differences between state and federal prison. These individuals might have friends who have been to state prison and so they’ve heard stories about what it’s like, but they might not have heard any stories about the federal prison system. Let’s take a look at several of the most important differences between these two systems of incarceration.

Federal prisons are used to house individuals convicted of breaking federal law. The federal prison system has existed since 1930 when President Hoover established it. Federal prisons have three different classifications: low security, medium security and high security. Most of the individuals housed in federal facilities have broken drug laws or have committed some kind of political crime. Also, individuals convicted of bank robbery and various white collar crimes may also find themselves in federal prison.

Here are a few more differences between state and federal prison:

• There are more state prisons than federal prisons.
• Federal prisons tend to have higher security than state ones.
• Prisoners who have committed violent crimes are more likely to be in state prison,
• State prisons are often considered to be less safe than federal ones because more violent criminals live in them.

In some cases, a North Carolina defendant may be able to request that his or her matter be tried in state or federal court depending on the circumstances. Ultimately, defendants will want to consider the differences between state and federal requirements for a conviction, the threat of conviction and the difference between the punishment standards associated with their alleged offenses.

Related Links:

• How are State and Federal Courts Different?

Source: Difference Between, “Difference Between Federal and State Prison,” accessed March 09, 2018